Saxophone Lessons in Northwoods, IL

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute

I began teaching while I was in High School and I would teach the younger students who were freshman and sophomores the tenor saxophone. Once I went to Eastman, I taught several people throughout the course of the four years there. I beleive that, particulalry when teaching the saxophone and flute, a mix of classical fundamental technique is very important as well as incorporating the jazz or rock repertoire. I feel that my skills as a music therapist can be very unique particularly because I can really attend to the needs of the student and adapt the music and lesson accordingly. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Synthesizer Music

My goal as a teacher is to help you reach your own goals. Whether that be trying to make a career of music, or wanting to enrich your life with new skills, nothing brings me more satisfaction than to help others reach their goals. I also hope to provide my students with a community, as that is another vital aspect of music. I believe that it is important for my students to be performing and sharing the wonderful music they create with others. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I began teaching when I was still a student at Northwestern University. When I graduated in 1986 with an MM degree I began to pursue it full time which took me to many different middle/high schools in the area. I also taught at Lake Forest College as well as Saint Xavier University. In addition, I have also taught many beginners over the years. Other teaching experiences include group lessons, sectionals, master classes, and playing for patients in the oncology wing at Sherman Hospital. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I frequently assign listening homework, and I play audio recordings and videos during lessons that directly pertain to the areas we are focusing on. For example, if we are working on a classical solo piece, the student may watch footage of that piece being performed by a world-renowned saxophonist. This approach helps to keep things interesting and engaging. I will also record the audio of certain lessons so both myself and the student can track improvement. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

Through the years I have taught a variety of artists in the home or my studio. Most recently I've incorporated Skype to be able to work with more international based students. I'm a huge technology geek and love to incorporate it when applicable. I also teach Electronic Music Production and Performance for Ableton Live. Now that many more people have access to high-speed internet I can work with a more diverse group of people. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Recorder Euphonium Tuba Mallet Percussion

For beginning students I believe it's important for them to begin playing the first day. I get the students to make their first sound and teach the technique and theory as they learn their instrument. For beginning voice students I use the same method, but I like to use a song that the student knows. For students with experience I like to have them play or sing something they know and I evaluate that and I will work with them on that song and build their technique. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

As important as it is for me to help improve students technical ability and tone, I believe it is equally important for me to find ways to nurture students' creativity and passion for music. I believe it is very important for students to listen to a wide range of music, especially the type of music they are studying, in order to develop their awareness of style and nuance. I also encourage students to create their own exercises in addition to the ones I assign. Read More